Coping with a colicky baby can be terribly difficult for parents. Remember that colic is common and it won't last forever. It starts at approximately 3 weeks of age and is usually gone by the time a baby is 3 months old.
Call Doctor If:
1. Start With the Basics
- Change your baby's diaper.
- Offer your baby the chance to nurse or a bottle.
- Use a pacifier.
- Burp your baby.
- Hold and rock your baby, or use a swing or bouncer if your baby is old enough.
- Make sure your baby is not too hot or cold.
- If breastfeeding, can try to cut down on milk, spicy foods, citrus, and caffeine in your diet. However, colic is usually not related to anything mom has eaten.
2. Shift Positions
- Hold your baby facing down with your hand under their belly and their head on your forearm. It's called a football hold.
- Put your baby in a wearable carrier.
- Swaddle your baby in a blanket or swaddling wrap.
3. Move
- Put your baby in a baby swing or take them for a walk in a stroller.
- Put your baby's chair next to (but not on) a vibrating washer or dryer. There are also vibrating soothers that come in the shape of a stuffed animal or a wand. These can be placed near baby or in the lining of a car seat.
- Put your baby in a car seat and drive, as long as you are awake enough to drive safely.
4. Use Soothing Noises
- Use an app that produces white noise -- or a vacuum or fan -- in your baby's room.
- Sing or make a shushing sound directly into your baby's ear.
5. Take Breaks
- When possible, ask your partner or another family member to take a turn with your baby.
- Don’t get burned out. When you need to, put your crying baby down and take a break in another room for a few minutes to recharge.
- You may want to talk with your pediatrician about probiotic supplements or feeding changes to help with colic,